From Tribute To Trolling: Kolkata's Giant Messi Statue Sparks Outrage & Endless Memes Online

A towering 70‐foot iron statue of Lionel Messi has been unveiled at the Sree Bhumi Sporting Club in Lake Town, Kolkata. Depicting the Argentine legend holding the FIFA World Cup trophy, the installation has quickly become a local attraction, drawing crowds eager to see the tribute.

However, the monument has also ignited sharp criticism online. Many football fans and social media users questioned the rationale behind dedicating such a massive structure to a foreign player in a country still struggling to establish itself on the global football stage. Critics argued that the significant resources spent on the statue could have been better directed toward grassroots development, infrastructure, or nurturing young Indian talent.

Several posts highlighted the irony of celebrating Messi in India while the national team continues to face challenges in qualifying for major tournaments. Others described the tribute as misplaced, suggesting that idolizing an international star over homegrown icons undermines efforts to build a stronger domestic football culture.

While some acknowledged Messi's legendary status and global appeal, they emphasized that respect for his achievements should not overshadow the need to invest in local players. The sentiment that“heroes should be built at home first” was echoed across platforms, with many insisting that the funds could have transformed opportunities for aspiring footballers.

Indian footballers, who do not receive their proper salaries, seeing Messi's 70-foot statue in India.#Messi twitter/LvglAMXxxI

- ️ J (@EHuman0) December 13, 2025

This doesn't even look like Messi

- STRICTLY SPORTS 247 (@ssnews247) December 13, 2025

They Should have built statue of Bhaichung Bhutia, Sunil Chhetri instead of Messi. twitter/D2c1ppkCDg

- rae (@ChillamChilli) December 13, 2025

Explains why the British chose Bengal as base of operations. Done nothing to promote Indian sports or players. But will waste money on Messi statue

- kuladip.k (@kuladip7855) December 13, 2025

Indian footballers, who do not receive their proper salaries, seeing Messi's 70-foot statue in India.#Messi twitter/LvglAMXxxI

- ️ J (@EHuman0) December 13, 2025

India is unable to find sponsors for their top 1st and second division. All football operations are shut down. The players are down the drain. We have never even qualified for the world cup even once. But yea let's make a 70ft Messi statue. That'll fix everything. devuu;) (@devuuux13) December 12, 2025

Instead of Messi India needs Sunil Chhetri 's statue in India. That would boost Indian Football twitter/Ce2Laz6CAc

- Kr!§hhh_ಚೇ (@ITSCK47) December 13, 2025

The #statueofmessi looks more like statue of Jason Gillespie.. #Messi#MessiInIndia@Jason_Gillespie twitter/A84BVxjUGs

- Crime Master Gogo (PARODY) (@vipul2777) December 13, 2025

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